Flavoring tea
I am trying to start blending tea… but I end up seeing all kinds of different ways people present their tea. I wanted to see some opinions on how I should do it, before I start ordering. There is tea flavoring, scenting, and flavor granules.
For example… if I wanted to make passionfruit oolong, earl grey… how would I go about doing that? Do you have any recommendations? I want to have loose leaf tea blends.
Also, what are you thoughts about dried fruits vs. freeze dried fruits in teas?
This is an interesting topic! I would love to hear some of the replies as well because frankly, I don’t think just adding bits of freeze-dried fruit would cut it.
I agree… I think the fruit bits would just add to the aesthetic of the tea, but we want it to look pleasing.
The fruit pieces tend to add very little flavour, usually flavouring oils are added to actually give the taste you’re looking for. Some people are leery of added flavours (natural or artificial) and prefer blends with herbs and spices, which can be interesting though a bit limiting. Mint is one that I like a lot that packs a punch for a small quantity. Chamomile, lavender and jasmine are others that seem to impart flavour well. There is also tulsi and any variety of chai spices (cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, etc). I am having a tough time thinking of more at the moment, but I know there are others.
One thing I have noticed companies doing lately that I don’t personally appreciate is adding stevia, sugar or other sweeteners to their flavoured blends. While it may accentuate a certain flavour, many tea drinkers don’t use sweetener (like myself) and it can sometimes change the flavour in a way that isn’t necessarily agreeable.
In the end, it’s all about making tea that appeals to the drinker – if it’s for yourself, make what you like. If you are looking to sell, figure out what your market is and work on that. After drinking tea for a few years I have noticed I am not big on flavoured blends unless well done and with a great quality base. Many flavoured tea companies aim for new tea drinkers and that is AWESOME but it can be tough to keep customers after they have been on their journeys for a while. There is a tea out there for everyone!
Best of luck and happy tea!
I know you can buy chai mixes from Chai wallah that are just the spices, and allow you to put it into any kind of tea, but I don’t know if thats in any way what you are looking for… :/
http://www.flavordynamics.com/tea.html I’m guessing this company sells oils to use?
I really appreciate all of your input! It seems I will have to go through a big trial and error session until I find the blends and right tea. I want to blend to sell… my market will be mostly “new tea drinkers”. Hoping to get people excited and interested about drinking healthier beverages such as herbal infusions and tea. I could add a “tea purist” section with just the quality tea for the ones who enjoy the simple yet complex brew.
I don’t have much experience with blending so I want to know and get the opinions of others! :) Thank you!
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